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MENTAL MODEL · M2765

Behavioral Sink

Behavioral Sink
BehaviorHigh supportPsychology
Included
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Version 1.0.0 · Updated 2026-07-30

CORE DEFINITION

In a mouse utopia (Universe 25) with unlimited resources, no predators, but limited space, as population density reached a certain threshold, mouse society collapsed: abnormal behaviors such as excessive aggression, abandonment of offspring, social withdrawal (becoming 'homebodies'), and over-grooming (obsession with appearance but loss of sexual desire) emerged, ultimately leading to extinction.

SCAFFOLDING EFFECT

psychology

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A pathological rehearsal for high-density societies. It is seen as a biological metaphor for modern urban ills (low birth rates, 'lying flat', social anxiety). It warns us that even with unlimited material resources, if there is insufficient 'psychological space' and 'social roles', groups will move toward self-destruction.

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In environments with excessive density and limited resources, conflicts and abnormal behaviors among individuals rise sharply, leading to the collapse of group functions, known as behavioral sink.

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Source support: Explicit

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    en.wikipedia.orghttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Behavioral_sinkZH · Explicit
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